Safari Notes for Travel to Tanzania

Safari Dates: September 30 – October 12, 2026

Balance Due: July 1, 2026

In June we will send you the payment instructions for your final balance due to Tahzi Travel.

Payment options will include wire transfer, credit card, and mailing a check.

Arrival in Tanzania

We often recommend that our international travelers consider a stopover in Amsterdam. This is an excellent opportunity to explore a beautiful city while adjusting to the time difference.

If you prefer to arrive early in Tanzania, we can arrange airport transfers and hotel accommodations for you (at an additional cost).

Your Tanzania adventure begins on September 30, 2026.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will proceed through Visa on Arrival (or the regular immigration line if you already have your visa).

Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond October 13, 2026 (the final day of the trip).

Important: Tanzanian immigration may deny entry if your passport has less than six months of validity remaining.

You will need to pay $100 USD (Canadian citizens: $50 USD) for your visa upon arrival. This must be paid in cash using a new, clean $100 bill that has the updated security features.

Visa Information

Official Tanzania Government Visa Portal: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/start

Recommended third-party service: iVisa.com (easier alternative)

You can apply for your visa online in advance if you prefer. Many guests choose to get it on arrival because the government website can be difficult to navigate.

When completing the visa application (online or on arrival), you may be asked for your accommodation in Tanzania. Please use:

Nyikani Camps, Arusha

Final Reminder

Please carry copies of all important documents (passport, itinerary, vouchers, travel insurance, etc.) in your carry-on luggage.

Vaccinations & Medications for Travel to Tanzania

You should consult with a travel medicine specialist or your personal physician at least 3 months before your trip. They will provide a personalized list of recommended vaccinations and medications based on your health history.

Malaria Prevention

Although malaria risk is very low in the safari areas we visit, some travelers choose to take antimalarial medication. We strongly recommend discussing this with your healthcare provider.

Note from our experience:

Traditional antimalarial pills prescribed in the U.S. can sometimes cause stomach issues, typically around day 5, including severe cramps and diarrhea. Lodge doctors have advised that symptoms usually resolve quickly after stopping the medication.

If you decide to take antimalarials and experience these side effects, please have clear instructions from your doctor on when to discontinue them.

Packing Tip

Pack all prescribed medications in your carry-on luggage. We also recommend carrying photographs of the prescriptions or having the information accessible via email in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

Yellow Fever Immunization

If you are arriving directly from a country where yellow fever is not endemic (e.g., the U.S., Canada, or Europe), you typically do not need a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Tanzania.

Layovers or Travel Through Endemic Areas:

If your itinerary includes a layover of more than 12 hours in a yellow fever-endemic country, Tanzania will require a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival.

Common examples include: Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Angola, Nigeria, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Note: Travelers over age 60 are often exempt from receiving the vaccine itself, but you should still carry a yellow fever vaccination card if you have visited any of these countries prior to Tanzania.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for this trip.

Your safari package includes limited in-country medical evacuation insurance for emergencies. However, it does not cover the cost of medical treatment or emergency evacuation back home.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. A good place to compare policies is: insuremytrip.com

Purchasing items

Alcohol and non alcoholic drinks at the lodges and camps are not included in your price of the safari, but are very reasonable. You can pay in Euros or USD for additional items including purchasing carvings, jewelry and paintings from the local artist co-ops and purchases in the Maasai village.

Safety

We have always felt safe while in Tanzania whether it was around the people, the animals , in our beautiful accommodations or in the luxury tented camps. Our handpicked safari guides are some of the best you will experience in Africa.What About Bugs?

The Tsetse Fly can come out mid day in a couple of locations. Having long sleeve shirts, a scarf or neck gaiter and bug resistance clothing will be a welcome addition to your safari wardrobe.

Mosquitoes are not active during the day and not all mosquitoes carry malaria. At dawn or dusk, near water it is advisable to wear insect repellant.

Our accommodations and properties will repel insects from your rooms and most will have mosquito nets if needed. Most of the time our guest ask after their safari why they did not see mosquitoes as they were told that mosquitoes might form part of their itinerary in Africa. Our response,”You may just have to come back a second time to see them.”

We suggest bringing Picaridin which can be purchased on Amazon. It works great and does not use harsh chemicals like Deet. Insect repellant wipes are handy to have as well.

What kind of food will be offered on the trip?

Each morning and evening, breakfast and dinner are provided at the lodges. The cuisine varies and includes: egg dishes, pancakes, multiple types of juice, African stews, homemade breads, chicken, beef, rice dishes, potatoes, and more.

Each day you are on safari, a box lunch is provided for you. The lunches include more than you can eat and vary daily. On any given day you might have fried chicken, beef, sandwiches, chips, fruit, dessert and juice. The vegetarian options available are very tasty! Water, juice, wine and beer is provided in the cooler in the vehicle throughout the day. Most lodges have a full bar with drinks for purchase.

In general the food is not spicy, very good, and plentiful. When drinking water, We recommend drinking only that which has been provided to you in bottles. Most dietary restrictions can be met while on the trip.

Each night and morning the food is created by Chef’s at the lodges and luxury tented camps. Our Tanzanian host are wonderful and are always encouraging us to eat, drink and enjoy the culinary experience on safari.   (no exotic bush meat)

Tipping on Safari

Tipping is a personal choice, but it is one of the most common questions we receive.

Most Tanzanians earn well under $300 per month, with many in rural areas earning around $150 per month. Your tip is not just a bonus, it is a meaningful part of your guide’s livelihood. Safari guides work long hours and bring deep knowledge, expertise, and care to your experience. Throughout the trip, your guide becomes much more than a driver, they are your storyteller, protector, and guide to the African wilderness.

Recommended Tipping Guidelines

Tip Preparation

Please bring:

• $300 – $400 USD in newer $50 and $100 bills for your safari guides

• $50 – $100 USD in smaller, newer bills ($1, $5, $10) for hotel staff and porters

• Newer bills with updated security features are preferred and more widely accepted.

Should I Use U.S. Dollars or Tanzanian Shillings?

U.S. Dollars and Euros are widely accepted in Tanzania, especially in tourist areas. Most travelers exchange very little local currency.

Hotels and some lodges will exchange U.S. dollars for Tanzanian shillings.

ATMs are available but only in limited locations.

We recommend contacting your bank or card issuer before travel to notify them of your trip to Africa, as many guests have experienced declined transactions without prior notice.

What Is the Daily Schedule Like on Safari?

A typical safari day starts early. You’ll wake up, enjoy breakfast, and head out while the animals are most active. You will spend the morning on a game drive searching for wildlife until around lunchtime, when your guide will stop in a scenic spot for a delicious box lunch.

After lunch, you’ll continue your game drive for more wildlife viewing. You will typically arrive back at your lodge or camp shortly before dinner, often in time to enjoy Tanzania’s spectacular sunsets.

Important Notes

Many roads in the parks are bumpy and can be both muddy and dusty on the same day.

You must remain in the safari vehicle at all times unless your guide tells you it is safe to exit.

Never attempt to interact with the animals, photography only.

Safari vehicles have a pop-up roof for excellent viewing and photography.

Days can be warm and dusty, but they are truly remarkable. Air conditioning is available in most vehicles.

In the Central Serengeti, we use open-sided vehicles, which offer an incredible experience and a wonderful breeze.

What Animals Will We See?

Our guides are experts at finding wildlife. While it’s impossible to guarantee specific sightings, you are very likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, hippos, and baboons.

Leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos are more elusive. Many guests see them, but there are no guarantees. The Serengeti and other Tanzanian parks offer some of the finest wildlife viewing in the world.

Restroom Facilities

Restrooms are available at the park entrances and exits. During longer game drives, your guide will stop whenever needed (often referred to on safari as “checking the tire pressure”).

Tip for women: Bring your own toilet paper and a small Ziploc bag to dispose of it when you return to the lodge.

Can I Use My Cell Phone on This Trip?

To stay connected while in Africa, contact your cell phone provider before departure. Most major carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) offer international plans.

If you travel frequently and your provider’s rates are high, consider specialized services such as Telestial, Planet Fone, or Cellular Abroad.

What about Internet access?

Most accommodations will have  internet access. It may be necessary to locate to a common area tent for access during our time in the Serengeti.

Common Swahili Phrases

All our guides and lodge staff speak excellent English, so you will have no trouble communicating. However, learning a few Swahili phrases is a wonderful way to connect with local people and show respect. Tanzanians really appreciate the effort!

Here are the phrases you will use most often:

Tanzanians are famously friendly and welcoming. Many are university-educated, and most hotel and lodge staff hold four-year degrees in hospitality. You will find them incredibly kind, gracious, and genuinely interested in learning about you and your culture.

The Maasai People

The Maasai are a semi-nomadic pastoralist tribe and one of East Africa’s most iconic and recognizable peoples.

During your visit, you will be welcomed with a traditional dance, followed by a guided tour of their village and homes. You will also have the opportunity to speak with them about their unique way of life.

Photographing the Maasai is welcomed, but always ask permission first, be respectful, and thank them. This is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime experience, don’t be shy with your camera!

You may also visit the village school, where the children often sing songs and recite lessons for visitors.

The Hadzabe Tribe

The Hadzabe are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer communities in East Africa.

A visit with the Hadzabe offers a unique and authentic glimpse into one of the oldest ways of life on Earth. You may have the chance to join them on a hunt or foraging expedition for tubers, berries, and other bush foods. If you prefer not to participate actively, simply observing and photographing their daily life is a fascinating and memorable experience.

The remainder of the day typically includes a bush breakfast, a visit to the Datoga tribe (known for their blacksmithing skills), and a stop at the Gorofani Market.

What Souvenirs Might I Find on the Trip?

As you travel through Tanzania, you’ll have wonderful opportunities to explore the country’s rich art, music, and culture. Shopping for souvenirs is one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip, almost every item tells a story.

You’ll find beautiful beadwork, colorful traditional clothing, hand-carved family trees, and intricate masks. One of the most popular souvenirs is Tinga Tinga painting, bright, joyful, and full of playful colors that often depict African legends, animals, and daily life.

• Other popular items include:

• Maasai jewelry and beaded crafts

• Carved wooden animals and statues

• Handwoven baskets

• Traditional fabrics (kangas and kitenge)

• Local coffee and tea

Charging Electronics

You can easily charge all your devices during the safari. All safari vehicles are equipped with power converters (usually USB and standard outlets) as well as the lodges and camps.

Recommendations:

Bring extra camera batteries, they can be charged at the lodges and camps each night.

Consider bringing a small power strip or multi-port USB charger so you can charge multiple devices at once.

Power outlets in the rooms are usually 220–240V (European-style round pins), so a universal travel adapter is helpful.

Things to Pack for Your Tanzania Safari

Here’s a practical packing list based on years of traveler feedback:

• Flashlight or headlamp (a good, bright one — very useful at night)

• Ear plugs (in case you don’t want to hear the animals outside your tent)

• Compact binoculars (8x30 or higher are highly recommended)

• Flip-flops or sandals (for around the lodge/camp at the end of the day)

• Comfortable hiking boots or shoes (with good ankle support)

• Shorts or zip-off pants (it can get quite warm during the day)

• Scarf or Buff (great for dust on game drives)

• Wide-brimmed hat (Tilley or outback style — excellent sun protection)

• High-quality sunscreen

• Insect repellent — We recommend Incognito Anti-Mosquito Spray (highly effective and pleasant to use)

• Anti-diarrheal medication (e.g., Imodium)

• Dramamine or motion sickness medication (if you are prone to car sickness — roads can be bumpy)

• Moisturizer and lip balm (the air can be very dry and dusty)

• Topical antibiotic ointment (e.g., Neosporin) for cuts, bites, or sores

• Small notepad and pen (for notes and journaling)

• Polarized sunglasses

• Reading glasses (plus an extra pair if you wear them)

• Extra contact lenses and eye drops (conditions can be very dry and dusty)

• Wet wipes (we never travel without them)

• Ziploc bags (various sizes) — essential for disposing of toilet paper or wipes when using the bush

Pro Tip: Pack your binoculars, camera, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage, in case your checked bag is delayed.

What Kind of Clothes and Footwear Should I Bring?

Color Recommendations

Wild animals in Tanzania are accustomed to the natural colors of the bush. Wearing earth tones, browns, tans, khakis, and soft greens, makes you less noticeable and helps keep the animals calm.

Dark colors (especially black and dark blue) attract tsetse flies and are ok at night, but not suggested while out during the day.

Bright white is impractical because of dust and can be too visible to wildlife.

Our suggestion: Stick to muted, neutral, earth-tone clothing for your safari wardrobe.

Other Important Notes

Laundry service is available at most lodges and camps, so you do not need to overpack.

Do not bring camouflage clothing. Military-style camouflage is strictly prohibited for civilians in Tanzania.

Layering is Key

Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while midday is often warm. Think in layers!

Recommended Clothing & Footwear

• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (excellent for sun and insect protection)

• T-shirts or short-sleeve shirts

• Long khaki or neutral-colored pants

• Zip-off pants or shorts (very convenient)

• Bathing suit / swimsuit

• Wide-brimmed hat (for strong sun)

• Scarf or neck gaiter (great for dust)

• Lightweight hiking shoes or boots

• Closed-toe hiking sandals

• Lightweight jacket or fleece

• Warm jacket or sweater (for early mornings and evenings)

• Socks and underwear (pack extra)

• Sleepwear

Final Tip

Forget formal clothes, safari life is very casual, even at upscale lodges. Comfort is the priority!

Camera Gear Options

You don’t need expensive equipment to capture incredible safari photos, many guests take stunning images with just their hones. Whether you use a DSLR, mirrorless camera, GoPro, or smartphone, the most important thing is knowing your gear before the trip.

Recommended Camera Gear

Extra memory cards (bring several smaller capacity cards rather than one large one, if a card fails, you won’t lose everything)

Extra batteries (a must, power is available at the lodges)

Lens cleaning cloth

Camera bag that seals well (to protect from dust when not in use)

Pro Tips

Photography and video equipment can get very dusty on safari. We provide sensor cleaners if needed.

Always pack your camera, lenses, and memory cards in your carry-on luggage, never in checked bags.

Photography Restrictions

It is illegal in Tanzania to photograph:

• Military or police personnel

• Border posts, airports, or military bases

• Bridges and certain government buildings

When in doubt, always ask your guide first.

Drones

Flying a drone in Tanzania requires a permit from the Ministry of Defense and the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, plus third-party insurance (approximately $50).

Important:

Flying over national parks is strictly prohibited.

Without the proper permits, your drone will likely be confiscated at the airport and may not be returned.

We strongly recommend leaving drones at home for this trip.

Weather

Tanzania’s climate on safari is generally very comfortable.

Average daytime highs: low 80s°F

Average nighttime lows: 50s–60s°F

Humidity is low due to the high elevation.

The moderate temperatures make game viewing pleasant throughout the day. Even at midday it is rarely uncomfortably hot, and many animals remain active.

Elevation Notes:

Serengeti National Park: 5,000 – 6,000 feet

Tarangire: ~3,500 feet (slightly warmer)

Ngorongoro Crater rim: 7,500 – 8,000 feet (noticeably colder, especially in the early mornings)

During the warmer months (October–March), expect average highs around 84°F and lows around 60°F in the Serengeti.

Luggage Weight Limits

When flying from the Serengeti back to Arusha on internal flights, the official luggage limit is 15 kg (33 lbs) per person. While luggage is not always weighed, it’s wise to stay close to this limit.

Helpful option: If you are continuing on to Europe or elsewhere after the safari, you can safely leave an extra suitcase at Nyikani Camps in Arusha for free storage.

Additional Thoughts

While wildlife is the main focus of any safari, getting to know the warm and welcoming people of Tanzania is often one of the trip’s greatest highlights.

Tip: Bring a few postcards or photos of your hometown, local wildlife, or natural attractions. They make excellent conversation starters with guides, lodge staff, and villagers.

Flight Comfort Tip: On long international flights, feet and ankles can swell. Wear comfortable, roomy, flat shoes for the journey.

Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Serengeti

This is a spectacular optional experience we can arrange for you, a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Current price (as of 2026): $599 per person (subject to change).

Please let us know if you would like to add this to your itinerary.

Questions?

I have been leading safaris to Tanzania since 2014 and am always happy to help. Feel free to contact us directly:

Terry Divyak

📞 425-516-8838

✉️ terry@tahzitravel.com

Linda Banazsak

📞 360-333-1933

✉️ linda@tahzitravel.com